Server monitoring is critical to critical IT infrastructure maintenance. A good monitoring system not only generates alarm in response to the critical events but also provides the analytical tools to work on the larger scenario in IT domain. For server monitoring purposes, some standard protocols are used in the IT industry. The commonly used protocols are SNMP, ICMP, and WMI etc. SNMP is, by far, the commonest choice and widely used platform for server monitoring. SNMP uses a common community string to monitor devices. When the string is matched, it provides useful information regarding the physical health of server and other devices.
SNTP – A Brief Introduction: This abbreviated form stands for Simple Network Management Protocol . It is a standard protocol and used to monitor servers on IP network. However, the service of SNMP extends to other devices including routers, switches, printers etc. This protocol has an extensive use in network management systems. SNMP monitors each of the network-attached devices for conditions worth warranting attention from the administrator. SNMP enterprises of some standard features including a schema, application layer protocol, a set of data objects for comprehensive management of the entire network.
SNMP – Working Process: On the managed system – which defines the system configuration – the management data is represented in form of variables. Once exposed, the management data – in their new format – are queried and sometimes set by the managing applications. In case of typical SNMP uses, the administrative computers (they may be one or more in number) or managers manage or monitor a gaggle of devices on a computer network platform. Round the clock, each of the management systems executes an agent (Software Component). This agent takes the responsibility of sending vital information to the manager through SNMP.
Why Use SNMP to Monitor Server: For server monitoring, SNMP is a preferred choice. There are several reasons for it. SNMP sends easy-to-comprehend information to the network administrators. Such a feature helps in proper management of multiple devices with help of common network management tools. Only a single interface is sufficient for the purpose of device management via SNMP. It's efficient and optimal device management system ensures excellent communications between the management stations and agents from multiple vendors. The comprehensive network analyzer – an important tool of server monitoring via SNMP – delivers timely analysis. The analyzer is also assigned the task of viewing and managing statics from the SNMP compliant devices. On strength of some important tools, SNMP does several critical tasks including network interface mapping, RAM space checking and provision of back-end-support system. An all-inclusive and extensive checking characterizes the SNMP server monitoring. Constant monitoring and status display of various devices is an assurance that you get the best for your server management and its smooth running.
Server monitoring via SNMP uses the various tools of network management in order to get the perfect piece of information regarding the network bottleneck. As the entire monitoring system is based on performance reports from the devices, you can always expect SNMP to work properly towards server monitoring.